200 and a 4 speed ?

I am considering a 200 cid ( there is one in a 83 LTD in a local yard that is PRIMO)...and maybe find me a top loader 4 speed for my 61 Rancho.
This would be a strong motor and a good low end gear ratio ....
Might just make a truck out of this truck...
Any thoughts?

Thanks.
I am reading where there is a big difference in the bolt patterns also.
How will this affect my search for a properly matching toploader?...
Kinda figure i will go with the SROD for the hiway gear, maybe even a lower gear in the rear too...3.03 or 3.10...
Read somwhere that an early maverick rearend (70-73) would be a bolt on and have a better ratio.

i forget exactly which is the direct fit, but i think you are rite that it it is the mavarick/comet rear.
as for the SROD trans, you would probably be better off going with a newer engine. the 200 was used into the 80's.

if you turn on your E-mail option, i can send you some more info i would rather not put on the open forums.

On hooking up that 200 to a Toploader or any other 4 or 5 speed transmission: Use a manual transmission bellhousing from a 250 cubic inch engine. The easy way to tell the difference is the 250 will have the starter located in the V8 position, unlike the 144/170/200s 'high and tight' to the exhaust manifold position. From there, IIRC, use the stock flywheel and clutch components, and IIRC the input shaft for the transmissions are the same.

Transmission tunnel: '63 1/2 Falcon/Ranchero V8 with a manual had the correct tunnel cover for the Toploader.

Shifter: IIRC, the Mustang shifter is the same as used on the Falcon, at least it was on the '64 and '65 Falcons I worked on, unknown on earlier models.

Rearend: A stock 8" is adequate, that 7.5" in there now is weak, at best. IIRC, the Maverick rearend is the right dimensions, as is '65 to '66 Mustang. Heck, money no object, a Currie 9" sounds good.

Again, all this information is from the top of my head and deep in the archives of my mind, so it may or may not be correct information.

actually Bill, the muskrat rear is 1 1/2 inch wider than the falcon rear.
it will work, but you have to use different backspacing on the rims to clear the fenders.
we go through this every 6 month or so on the falcon site.

3 things....
1. IIRC?....What de hek iz dat?
2. Is a "muskrat" a kniickname for dem Maverick's?
3.....I am a full time student...4 now. So money kinda is an object.
Plan to have my master electrician liscense in July....so these Falcons are keeping me from going stir crazy.
Also...dont forget this is a 1961 Ranchero with original 4-main 170 and 2.77 3-on-the-tree....
Thanks for all the advice....this WILL be an ongoing project. As soon as i figure out how to post some piks...You fellas will get a look at "The Jolly Rancher"....LOL
I have been around cars, wleding, and fabbing for 20 yrs...so nothing is impossible.
Thia rascal is coming down to bare metal and I am going to build meself a truck that looks and rides like a car....
YEEEE HAWWW ! ! ! !

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